All wheel drive is same as full time 4 wheel drive and 6 wheel. This is system in which drive powers are supplied to all four or six wheels of a vehicle at all times. This configuration can be useful feature in cars, trucks, and SUVs, these vehicles can be driven under some challenging conditions. These are some advantages of all wheel drive vehicles. Such as:
- The main advantage of the all wheel drive is traction. In this all wheels are capable to drive the vehicle forward. Though one or two wheels lose traction because of slippery surfaces like ice, snow or mud, It can continue to drive in case of all wheel drive configuration. When front wheel starts to slip then drive power is directed by some or all wheel drive car and minivans to rear-wheels of the vehicle, so this part time application of traction is useful when it is needed.
- Another feature of all wheel drive configuration is performance. Advantage of additional traction is taken by sports cars to achieve faster acceleration times even on dry surfaces. In all-wheel-drive configuration, steering is also improved.
- Another advantage of all-wheel-drive vehicles is better weight distribution. More consistent handling is provided by better weight distribution.
- Generally, all wheel or four wheel drive systems are used for many trucks and SUVs for off road use feature. This off road capability of the vehicles can allow the vehicles to drive over uneven terrain. Vehicles which have this configuration can move on muddy surfaces or through shallow water.
Your driving needs can determine the right configuration to choose. You can consider advantages and disadvantages of different configurations and your requirements.